Treeing Walker Coonhound Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a fast, lean American scent hound with a tricolor coat and a ringing voice. It was bred to chase raccoons and other game up trees and hold them there, and it is friendly and energetic.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the United States from English Foxhound-type dogs, and it was recognized as separate from other coonhounds in the twentieth century. Treeing Walkers are medium-large and athletic, with a long head, drop ears, a short, glossy coat in white with black and tan patches and a long tail.

Temperament

They are friendly, energetic and sociable. They are usually good with children and other dogs. They are independent and persistent. They can be vocal. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need one to two hours of daily exercise, with running, hiking and sniffing. Secure fencing is essential, since they follow scents and can climb or dig. Mental work matters.

Training

They are intelligent but determined. Use positive methods, patience and food rewards. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Early socialization helps. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing. Clean the ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Skin issues. See dog skin allergies
• Obesity. See obesity risks in dogs

Living with a Treeing Walker

Treeing Walkers suit active homes with a tall, secure fence and neighbors who tolerate baying. They are friendly and often do well with another dog. A house with someone home for much of the day is ideal.

A typical day

A typical day involves a long walk or run, a rest on a bed, a scent game and another outing. Many Walkers are happy to curl up near their people once exercised.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are lanky and noisy. Offer plenty of safe chew items, begin harness and lead training and expose the puppy to sounds, people and other dogs. Avoid heavy running on hard ground while the joints develop. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Costs include a strong harness, a tracking collar if you plan to hunt, fencing, food and vet care. Many Walkers are available through rescue after hunting seasons. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Thin coats mean Walkers feel the cold, so provide a jacket in winter. In heat, give shade and water. Car trips go well with a crate or harness.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting the dog off lead, underexercising, leaving the dog alone and ignoring the voice.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, the parents' hunting or companion lines and their temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live.

Speed and treeing

Treeing Walkers are known for speed and a clear, high voice when they have trailed game to a tree. Pet dogs may stand at the base of a tree and bay at squirrels. Daily outlets keep the drive manageable.

Fences and gates

These hounds can jump, dig and slip through small gaps. Check fences and gates regularly, use a sturdy harness and microchip the dog, because a fast hound on a scent can be far away in minutes.

Daily care checklist

• A long walk or run in a secure area.
• A rub-down with a mitt.
• An ear check.
• A scent or tracking game.
• A warm bed and fresh water.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Treeing Walker suits active owners who want a fast, friendly scent hound and can provide exercise and secure fencing. It may not suit apartments or quiet homes. For a related breed, see the Redbone Coonhound.

The takeaway

Treeing Walker Coonhounds are fast, vocal and friendly, and they need exercise, secure fencing and patience.